NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Amid ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, India and Switzerland formalized five cooperation pacts following discussions in New Delhi on October 5. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin led the negotiations during Parmelin’s three-day state visit. The agreements encompass areas such as migration, youth employment schemes, transport, scientific cooperation, innovation, and technology exchange. Both leaders also examined trade, investment, defence, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence. Parmelin’s visit marks his first official state visit to India and his second trip to the country in 2026.
The migration partnership introduces multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years, with visits permitted for as long as six months. It also offers renewable one-year permits for students. A dedicated Young Professionals Scheme will initially admit 300 participants from each nation annually, with the potential to increase the quota to 500 later. This program aims to provide young professionals with temporary employment opportunities that foster career development and language skills. The migration framework also addresses issues such as irregular migration, human trafficking, document fraud, and the readmission of nationals required to leave the country.
A new agreement on transport and infrastructure expands cooperation to include electric vehicles, ropeways, tunnels, and circular economy initiatives. Additionally, India’s Department of Science and Technology signed a research Letter of Intent with the Swiss National Science Foundation. Another arrangement connects the department with Zurich University of Applied Sciences through the Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training programme, which supports innovation, technology transfer, and science-based startups. The two nations also announced an Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative focusing on sectors such as health, clean energy, and space.
Trade agreement promotes broader economic collaboration
The discussions followed the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into effect on October 1, 2025. EFTA comprises Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Its investment framework aims to attract $100 billion in Indian investments over 15 years and create one million direct jobs. Switzerland confirmed that the implementation remains on track. The two countries are also in advanced negotiations over a new bilateral investment protection treaty, with the Swiss government describing the talks as progressing well.
Modi highlighted efforts to enhance Swiss market access for Indian agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering goods. He also underscored Swiss investment prospects in biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing, and sustainability. India has extended invitations for Swiss participation in infrastructure planning, manufacturing, and skills development. Existing collaborations include the Varanasi ropeway, Noida International Airport, railway projects, and mountain tunnelling initiatives. According to Swiss government data, approximately 350 Swiss companies operate in India through subsidiaries, branches, and joint ventures.
Discussions on defence, energy, and global issues
The leaders also addressed broader topics such as military cooperation and defence manufacturing, although these areas were not part of the five agreements signed. They agreed to deepen collaboration in nuclear energy and continue dialogue on artificial intelligence. Switzerland has announced plans to host the Geneva AI Summit in spring 2027, following India’s 2026 AI summit. The two governments also explored research partnerships and responsible, inclusive approaches to artificial intelligence, alongside the new accords on mobility, science, transport, and innovation.
During their meeting, Modi and Parmelin also discussed regional and global issues including Ukraine, West Asia, multilateral institutions, and international governance. India noted that both nations support dialogue, diplomacy, and reforms within international organizations. Parmelin traveled with representatives from business and science sectors and is scheduled to attend the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7. This event will bring together government officials and business leaders to discuss investment opportunities and cooperation under the trade agreement. His itinerary also includes a visit to Noida International Airport, operated by a Zurich Airport subsidiary.